Broads Authority warning over Norwich 'bomb' river find
People are being warned of the dangers of magnet fishing in the Broads
People in Norfolk and Suffolk are being warned of the dangers that may be lurking in the Broads, after a teenager in Norfolk brought an unexploded bomb to the surface.
The Broads Authority has issued a plea for people to follow the correct procedures when magnet fishing to avoid putting themselves and others at risk.
It follows a 13-year-old boy making an ‘explosive’ discovery this weekend in Norwich.
He was magnet fishing with his family along the River Wensum when he pulled up the device, which resulted in the closure of a bridge and bomb specialists being called to the scene.
"A timely reminder of the potential dangers of magnet fishing"
A spokesman for the Broads Authority (BA) issued a statement on social media following the incident, giving guidance on what people should do if they make a similar volatile find.
The spokesman said: “This is a timely reminder of the potential dangers of magnet fishing in the Broads.
“If weapons or unexploded ordnance are recovered, always phone the police on 999 immediately.”
The BA said people must take home and safely dispose of all objects retrieved from the rivers and ensure that no items are left on the riverbank.
Failing to do so would constitute fly-tipping and this could be reported to the police or the Environment Agency, which may result in a fine.
"Pay particular attention to any sharp or rusty bits of metal"
The spokesman added: “Please pay particular attention to any sharp or rusty bits of metal which pose dangers to the public, local wildlife and pets if left on the riverbank.
“These can also cut you and cause infection if not handled properly.
“Finally, make sure you don’t get pulled into the water by the powerful magnets and pay attention to the trip hazards posed by the ropes.”
Magnet fishing has become an increasingly popular pastime which involves using high-powered magnets attached to a line to retrieve metal objects hidden on river banks.